Plastic Surgery Essentials for Students-Chapter 24: Thermal, Electrical and Chemical Injuries

Chapter 24: Thermal, Electrical and Chemical Injuries

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The document addresses thermal, electrical, and chemical injuries, discussing the causes, diagnosis, prognosis, and management strategies for each type.<br /><br /><strong>Thermal Injuries:</strong> Often arise from exposure to heat, electricity, chemicals, or cold, leading to varying degrees of skin destruction and systemic effects. The management of these injuries requires a multidisciplinary approach, understanding not only the skin damage but also the impacts on hemodynamics, metabolism, and other homeostatic systems. Burns are classified by depth (first to fourth degree) and assessed by their size using the Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) method. Critical regions like the face, hands, and feet necessitate special attention and potentially a burn center referral. Treatment includes fluid resuscitation, respiratory care, infection prevention, and wound management.<br /><br /><strong>Chemical Burns:</strong> These are caused by chemical agents, where the severity depends on factors like the nature and concentration of the agent, duration of exposure, and penetration depth. Immediate copious water irrigation is crucial, with special approaches for specific chemicals like hydrofluoric acid or white phosphorus.<br /><br /><strong>Electrical Injuries:</strong> Result from the passage of electrical current through the body, which can cause tissue damage dependent on circuit type, voltage, and other factors. Special complications affect the heart, kidneys, muscles, and more, requiring tailored fluid management and frequent monitoring to prevent severe outcomes like compartment syndrome or renal failure.<br /><br /><strong>Cold Injuries:</strong> Encompass frostbite and systemic hypothermia, involving the formation of ice crystals in body tissues. Rapid rewarming and careful monitoring are key components of treatment.<br /><br /><strong>Lightning Injuries:</strong> These are distinguished from general electrical injuries with typically superficial burns and potential systemic effects like arrhythmias and neurological symptoms. Immediate medical care, monitoring, and potentially specialized treatment for sequelae are essential for all injury types outlined.

Keywords

thermal injuries

electrical injuries

chemical burns

cold injuries

lightning injuries

burn management

fluid resuscitation

wound management

systemic effects

multidisciplinary approach